Smeg dishwasher symbols and indicators are grouped on the control panel either the upper panel (door open for access) or front panel (door closed) to guide program selection, options, warnings, and status updates.
Controls vary slightly by model, but core symbols are consistent across most dishwashers for easy recognition.
Upper panel controls (door open access)
Most Smeg dishwashers have their main controls on the upper panel, accessible only with the door open for safety during programming.
- On/Off button (symbol: power icon or labeled “ON/OFF”): Press to energize the appliance or shut it down completely.
- Program selection button (symbol: arrows or “P”): Cycle through wash programs; often combined with water hardness adjustment (hold >15 seconds).
- Selected program indicator lights (numbered lights 1–5 or icons): Illuminate to show the chosen program (e.g., Soak, Eco, Super); also flash for faults or “end of cycle.”
These lights double as status indicators: steady for selected, flashing for running, or multiple lit for errors.
Warning and maintenance symbols
Smeg uses dedicated lights to alert you to refill needs or adjustments, keeping maintenance simple.
- Salt warning light (salt shaker icon): Lights when the salt container is empty; refill with dishwasher salt.
- Rinse aid warning light (droplet icon): Indicates low rinse aid; refill the dispenser on the door interior.
- Water hardness adjustment light (flashing light): Activates during softening system setup; number of lit program lights shows the level (0–5).
These warnings ensure optimal performance; ignoring them can lead to spotting or poor drying.
Program symbols (numbered or icons)
Smeg programs are selected by number/symbol and shown in a table on the panel or manual, with load suggestions and durations.
| Program # & Symbol | Typical Load | Key Steps | Duration (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1: Soak (prewash icon) | Pans awaiting full load | Cold prewash | 9–15 min |
| 2: Rapid/Glass (quick wash icon) | Light soil, glasses | Wash 38–45°C, rinse | 27–59 min |
| 3: Eco (leaf or EN 50242 icon) | Normal soil, standard test | Prewash, 45°C wash, rinses, dry | Variable, efficient |
| 4: Normal/Half Load (half basket icon) | Normal or partial load | Prewash, 65°C wash, dry | 70–115 min |
| 5: Super/Ultra Clean (intense icon) | Heavy soil, pots | Prewash, 70°C wash, extra rinse, dry | 105–150 min |
Program lights flash during operation; lights 4+5 flashing together mean “end of cycle.”
Option symbols (add‑ons)
Extra functions are toggled by dedicated buttons with icons, often combinable except with Soak.
- Flexi Tabs (tablet icon): For 3in1/4in1 detergents; disables salt/rinse aid dosing.
- HyClean/Ultra Clean (bacteria/shield icon): Prolongs final rinse for hygiene; light flashes if temp drops.
- Spread Half Load (half baskets icon): For partial loads in both baskets; saves energy/time.
- Program Delay (clock icon): Delays start (3/6/9/12/24 hrs); light shows countdown.
- Enersave/Eco (energy leaf icon): Opens door at end for natural drying; auto on compatible cycles.
Lights confirm activation; most reset post‑cycle except Flexi Tabs.
Front panel variants (door closed access)
Some Smeg models (e.g., integrated) use a front panel for programming with door closed.
- On/Off + warning light: Powers unit; light shows status.
- Option buttons/lights (icons as above): Same symbols for delays, half load, etc.
- Child Lock buttons (padlock icons): Press two simultaneously to lock controls.
- Start/Pause button (play/pause icon): Starts cycle; hold to cancel.
- Program buttons/lights (numbered): Select and confirm programs.
Door handle often doubles as visual cue; symbols match upper panel style.
Status and end‑of‑cycle indicators
Smeg uses light patterns for real‑time feedback:
- Running light (flashing program icon): Selected program blinks during wash.
- End of program (lights 4+5 flashing): Beeps briefly; open door to unload.
- Program in progress projector (some models): Light beam under door flashes during cycle, off at end.
- Energy management: After 5 min idle, lights dim/slow blink to save power.
These reduce guesswork without a full display on basic models.
Fault indicators (error alarms)
Multiple lights illuminate for self‑diagnosed issues; check troubleshooting section.
- E1–E9 alarms (multiple program lights): E.g., E1 (Aquastop leak), E5 (intake fault), E6 (drain fault); reset by door open/close or power cycle.
- Flashing patterns: Specific combos for water heating (E3), pump issues (E6/E11), etc.
If persistent, contact service; alarms halt unsafe operation.
FAQs: Smeg dishwasher symbols
What does the salt shaker light mean?
Container empty; add dishwasher salt to avoid white spots on dishes.
How do I select programs?
With door open (upper panel) or closed (front), press selection button until the numbered light/icon matches your load.
What’s the Flexi Tabs symbol?
Tablet icon; activates for multi‑action tabs, skipping salt/rinse aid.
End of cycle indicator?
Programs 4+5 lights flash with beep; projector light (if equipped) turns off.
Child Lock symbol?
Padlock icons; press both to lock/unlock controls.
Flashing program light during wash?
Normal; means cycle running. Steady = selected, off = complete/idle.
